Plc, Bcg Matrix, Product, Services Etc of Mahindra Scorpio

Customer Needs , Wants & Demands Needs are the basic human requirements. People need air, water, food, clothing and shelter to survive. People also have strong needs for recreation, education and entertainment. These needs become Wants when they are directed to specific objects that might satisfy the need. Wants are shaped by our society. Demands are wants for specific products backed by an ability to pay. Needs are of five types – ?Stated needs ?Real needs ?Unstated needs ?Delight needs ?Secret needs The SUV, â€Å"Mahindra Scorpio† comes under Real needs.Real need is a need where a customer wants a 4 wheeler whose operating cost , its initial price is low. A customer opts for a Mahindra Scorpio because †¢It has a combination of pulling capacity. †¢It is a safer vehicle because of its larger and heavier built and some people like a vehicle with broader seat arrangement with proper thy support. †¢It has a very good cargo capacity. †¢It's an All Terra in Vehicle made for rocky roads and smooth glass like roads for a comfortable journey. †¢It has very powerful CRDE Engine with a higher torque full on capacity to drag itself with ease when the throttle is fully pressed.SWOT Analysis of Mahindra Scorpio SWOT analysis stands for Strengths ,Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats . It’s a way of monitoring the external and internal marketing environment. The analysis is as follows- Strengths Analysis :- oIt has a very low maintenance cost with a gracefully tough masculine look . oIt has an extremely smooth performance in the rural, hilly, city and highway roads. oHas a well designed seating arrangement. oExcellent performance in case of covering long distance. oA very well impressed loyal brand positioning with good numbers of service centers.Weakness Analysis:- oIt has a very limited International market. oThere are no airbags for protection Opportunities Analysis:- oHard work of the R department to innovate some new attrac tive featured models. oIncreasing the purchasing power and attraction towards heavy cars of common people. oMaking the models more fuel efficient models and try to introduce CNG models. Threat Analysis:- oIncreasing competition with global players. oIncreasing fuel prices. Porter's Generic Strategy Of Mahindra ScorpioFive forces model of Porter's generic strategy of Mahindra Scorpio is as follows – Threat From Buyers – Mahindra Scorpio is a low and favorable SUV available in the market as in comparison with other car manufacturing companies. Threat From Suppliers – Mahindra is in collaboration with some leading foreign car parts company for delivery of the car parts. Threat From Competitors – There are competitors of Mahindra Scorpio in the market but no one has a SUV at this price range of Mahindra. Threat From New Entrants – There is a threat from the new entrants as Government has approved FDI , so foreign players may come .Threat From Substitut es – The main substitute of Mahindra Scorpio are the low range luxury cars. BCG Matrix in terms of Mahindra Scorpio Here in the BCG matrix the product which has a low market growth rate with low market share showed as Dog , the product which has a low market growth rate with high market share showed as Cash Cow , the product which has a high market growth rate with low market share showed as Question Mark , the product which has a high market growth rate with high market share showed as Dog . The Mahindra Scorpio comes under Star. The Value Delivery Chain In Respect of Mahindra ScorpioA value chain is a chain of activities. Products pass through all the activities of the chain in order and at each activity the product gains some value . As the picture shows above first the firm infrastructure is developed. Mahindra and Mahindra was already a giant automobile house when they launched Scorpio. Mahindra Scorpio is being developed at its Nashik plant. The primary value chain acti vities which are used in Mahindra Scorpio are: Inbound Logistics i. e the receiving and warehousing of raw materials and their distribution to manufacturing. Mahindra’s inputs primarily comprise raw materials and purchased components.Now it's time for assembling the raw material which is called as Operations , makes a car complete. In the next section that is in Outbound Logistics section the car is delivered to the various dealers located across India as their requirement. Now comes the most important part Marketing and Sales portion for which Mahindra has a qualified team and at last it's time for the after sales services. In maximum urban areas of India Mahindra has a service center. Customer Value & Satisfaction Customer satisfaction is the perception of the customer which comes after using the product .When the customer uses the product he compares between the products actual performance and the assurance provided by the company during the purchase. In case of Mahindra S corpio, they give the actual stated features and specifications to the customers along with a very good after sales service. It makes people delightful and influensive to purchase Scorpio. Marketing Plan Of Mahindra Scorpio Mahindra being a Indian company always kept in mind the price along with fuel efficiency . Now they targeted the urban areas along with hilly roads and promoted for that with the help of the brand name Mahindra.The distribution network of Mahindra was too much strong with distributors available across India and service centers followed by it. The car first launched in the metro cities and then entered in the smaller cities as per the awareness and promotion goes on. The Marketing Environmment Of Mahindra Scorpio Marketing environment consists of the two parts one is internal environment and another is external environment. Micro Environment :- The micro environment consists of the attributes such as – †¢The company that includes all the departments, à ¢â‚¬ ¢ Suppliers, Marketing intermediaries, †¢Customer markets, †¢Competitors †¢Publics Macro Environment:- The Macro environment consistes of †¢Demographic, †¢Cultural forces, †¢Economics, †¢Natural, †¢Technological, †¢Political, The micro environment is the environment which is related to the company's internal matters as the company. Here if we check Mahindra Scorpio we can see that it has strong company profile along with that a well design supply chain and suppliers from all around . Along with this company profile the mahindra still has its compititors in the market such as Toyota , Honda who also has SUV.And now the attribute is Publics or the customers who actually buy the car and uses it. The Macro environment is the external environment . Here we can see that the Demographic stands for the classification in terms of age and income . The Scorpio is mainly used by middle aged persons with a higher income than middle income group. Now the cultural forces which actually not affects Scorpio. Scorpio overcame the Natural obstacles and launched a product which is as preffered as on the hilly roads also preffered in the noraml highways for a long drive. Market ResearchMarket research often refers to either primary or secondary research. Secondary research involves a company using information compiled from various sources, which is about a new or existing product. Primary market research involves qualitative research as well as field tests or observations conducted for or tailored specifically to that product. Primary research, which is also called field research or original research, is useful for findings new information and getting customer’s views on products. now as we defined in earlier we did it in terms of Scorpio .Having defined the competitive framework, the next task undertaken was that of analyzing the consumer. Consumer segments of B and C category car buyers were analyzed in terms of their expe ctations from a car, their perceptions about cars and their relationship. Proprietary techniques of research, of the advertising agency Interface Communication, like Mind &Mood, ICON and VIP were used to understand this consumer. Segmentation , Targeting & positioning Segmentation :-A market segment consists of a group of customers who share a similar set of needs and wants.There are four different dimensions used to describe a product’s market segmentation. These four things are ? Demographic ?Behavioral ?Psychographic ?Geographic The Demographic segmentation includes ?Adults ?Male & Female ?Mostly middle aged people ?Mostly higher income group Behavioral segmentation is the most powerful approach because it uses ? Actual consumer behavior ?Product usage to make distinctions among market segments. Behavioral segmentation consists of some decision role attributes like Initiator ,Influencer, Decider, Buyer & User . Initiator buys it in his own decision.Influencer influences pe ople to buy the product such as a person using Mahindra Scorpio will influence other people to their near and dear ones to buy it. The decider here could be someone who is the head of the family and decides for his family to buy it. Behavioral Variable consists of Occasions , Benefits , User Status , Usage Rate , Buyer – Readiness , Loyalty Status , Attitude . Mahindra Scorpio is a car which can be used in all the occasions from family programs to daily life. A user uses it very frequently. In Geographic Segmentation we can say that it is good on the hilly roads as well as on the highways for a long drive.For the Psychographic segmentation the higher class is commonly purchased among people who have a family, since it’s a SUV. Reasons for its use are ? Safety ?By being a SUV it gives you a certain status among society. By being a SUV it gives you a certain status among society. Targeting M&M strategized to target a wider target audience, beyond UV customers – C class and B class, but would cut across rural and urban customers. It wanted to avoid the taxi trap that Indica and Qualis had fallen to it and did not offer color of white. Targeting was for those who wanted a lifestyle product that assured style, performance and ruggedness.The ruggedness appeal came from the parent brand itself. Class was more of the growing upper middle class. Positioning M&M built an innovative positioning around the theme of an SUV with a `car plus' package. The positioning communicated that the vehicle was better than competition in terms of any of these cars and is a better buy in terms of money. The commercials intentionally used foreign models to give an international look and feel to the product, there was a deliberate emphasis on the aspirational and world-class orientation of the Scorpio.It adopted a bold â€Å"car plus’ approach that because it was a totally new frame of reference that was being created. The primary focus was on the lifestyle â €“ a carefree, successful and bold attitude depicted by cruising on international highways. Mahindra purposely wanted to break way from its brand of ruggedness. The ‘nothing else will do’ was another play on the excellence that was attempting to be pushed. Advertising was strongly reinforced with below the line marketing – sponsoring events and strong test drive marketing.

Level 3 Childcare – Unit 3

Unit 3 – Supporting Children. E1.. The five pieces of legislation I have chosen are:- * The United Nations on the Rights of the Child * Human Rights Act 1998 * Children Act 1989 * Data Protection Act 1998 * Framework for Assessment of Children in Need and their Families 2000   E2.. The United Nations on the rights of the child will influence working practices in the setting by ensuring that all  children have a safe, happy childhood despite of their sex, religion, social origin, and where and who they were born..The Human Right act 1998 will influence working practices in the setting because it has an impact on rights in everyday life such as what you do, your beliefs but it also includes the matters of life and death. There are also most rights which ensure that you don’t damage other people's rights too. The Children act 1989 will influence working practices in the setting because it includes the welfare of the child,  the parental responsibility which are dutie s, rights, powers and the responsibilities of parents in respect to their child and the welfare of a ‘child in need'.The Data Protection act 1998 will influence working practices in the setting because it maintains confidential policy  which will not harm the child unless it is a ‘need to know' basis which can harm the child in any way The Framework for assessment of children in need and their families 2000 will influence working practices in the setting because they analyze, understand and record about what is happening to children and young people in their families and information about the community they live in. E3..The United Nations on the Rights of the Child – The policies and procedures of this act will help to safeguard the children by treating them differently to treat them equally which makes them feel like they are in an safe environment in they are comfortable and happy in. The Human Right Act 1998 – The policies and procedures of this act wi ll help safeguard the children by taking their parents ‘Human Rights' into account so their parents can ensure their parents have a safe environment  where they can learn and enjoy.The Children Act 1989 – The policies and procedures of this act will help safeguard the children as the act  is about the welfare of the child which is very important, it is also based on parental responsibility which shows how the child is being looked after by their parents and what happens if they fail to do so as it can harm the child and it also tells us how a ‘child in need' whose health development is likely to be impaired, provided a service or if the child is disabled.The Data Protection Act 1998 – The policies and procedures of this act will help safeguard the children by ensuring that all the children in the setting are looked after properly by their parents/carers  and not harmed in any way possible, if so serious action will be taken by the social workers and o ther professionals. The Framework for assessment of children in need and their families 2000 – The policies and procedures of this act will help safeguard the children by keeping a record of the children and other members of their family and they also keep information about their local area/community.E4.. The United Nations on the Rights of the Child – The policies and procedures for this act promote fair, just and inclusive strategies which support the children by taking their sex, religion, social origin, and where and who they were born into account but treating them differently but equally so the child isn't discriminated and isn’t feeling left out but instead they feel welcome, supported and comfortable in the setting.The Human Right Act 1998 – The policies and procedures for this act promote fair, just and inclusive strategies which support the children by taking the parents everyday rights into consideration so they do not harm the child in any way . The Children Act 1989 – The policies and procedures for this act promote fair, just and inclusive strategies which support the children by looking at all aspects of what  can harm the child or if they have any health development to safeguard.The Data Protection Act 1998 – The policies and procedures for this act promote fair, just and inclusive strategies which support the children because they may put their trust in you after disclosing some information which may harm. If the information does harm the child then you cannot promise the child you can’t tell anyone because action will have to be taken but instead you promise the child to try to make it etter and also you must keep the child informed  of every step so they don’t feel scared. The Framework for assessment of children in need and their families 2000 – The policies and procedures for this act promote fair, just and inclusive strategies which support the children because the professi onals  keep all information about the child stored and recorded whilst keeping an eye on them which keeps them up-to-date about the child's everyday life and what is happening in their community.

V-Guard Industries

What started in 1977 with two employees and a burning passion is now a force to reckon with in the Indian electric and electronic goods panorama. Our untiring commitment for performance, cutting edge technology, innovative design and dependable service standards have lead to unrivalled product quality and a trusted brand image. At V-Guard the principles that motivated our success remain unchanged: The passion of our early years and our quest for excellence.Through stringent quality measures, reliable products, talented people and a responsible approach to business and global citizenship we continue to steadily capture the hearts of the people. In 1977, Kochouseph Chittilappilly began a small manufacturing unit for voltage stabilizers with a vision and a capital of Rs 1,00,000 borrowed from his father. He soon established V-Guard Industries as a household name. V-Guard became the synonym for voltage stabilizers across South India.The company soon extended their range of products to in clude Pumps & Motors, Electric Water Heaters, Solar Water Heaters, Cables, UPS’s, and Ceiling Fans. V-Guard continues to remain at the helm through rigorous research and development. R&D labs at Cochin and Coimbatore explore and reinvent existing products and design. R&D for electronic products and electric geysers are carried out in Cochin while electro-mechanical products, electrical wires and solar water heaters are the strong V-Guard continues to remain at the helm through rigorous research and development.R&D labs at Cochin and Coimbatore explore and reinvent existing products and design. R&D for electronic products and electric geysers are carried out in Cochin while electro-mechanical products, electrical wires and solar water heaters are the strong point of the Coimbatore R&D lab. State of the art production centres ensure consistency and quality throughout the product range. Workforce being the core asset of any organisation, V-Guard has an employee strength of more than 1750 and over 5500 indirect employees through its SHG initiatives.With over 200 distributors and service centres and more than 10,000 retailers serving the needs of over 50 million customers, V-Guard stands as a market leader. News | Investor Relations | CSR | Careers | Contact Us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Disclaimer | Site Map  © 2011 Voltage Stabilizers, Electrical Wires, Water Heaters, Water Pumps, Voltage Stabilizers| V-Guard Industries Ltd. All Rights Reserved Web Design powered by DREEME point of the Coimbatore R&D lab. State of the art production centres ensure consistency and quality throughout the product range.Workforce being the core asset of any organisation, V-Guard has an employee strength of more than 1750 and over 5500 indirect employees through its SHG initiatives. With over 200 distributors and service centres and more than 10,000 retailers serving the needs of over 50 million customers, V-Guard stands as a market leader. News | Investor Relations | CSR | Careers | Contact Us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Disclaimer | Site Map  © 2011 Voltage Stabilizers, Electrical Wires, Water Heaters, Water Pumps, Voltage Stabilizers| V-Guard Industries Ltd.All Rights Reserved Web Design powered by DREEME About us CSR * Directors * V-Guard Story * Quality Control We believe in the amalgamation of corporate management, sustainable development and global responsibility in working toward a better society and thereby a better world. We are committed to greening our environment, supporting the less fortunate and nurturing the downtrodden. Extending a hand in support of education Kerala industrialist donates kidney to save a life ROTARY-BINANI ZINC CSR AWARDV Guard Industries was awarded the ROTARY-BINANI ZINC CSR AWARD (Private Sector) by the Rotary Club of Cochin Metropolis, in association with NIPM Kerala Chapter and ICAI, Ernakulam Branch for Best Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative by a company in the State of Kerala. Our Joint M anaging Director Dr. George Sleeba receiving the award. The Thomas Chittilapilly Trust The Thomas Chittilapilly Trust was founded by Kochouseph Chittilapilly, in memory of his late father, C. O. Thomas. It is an extension of the philanthropic and responsible values espoused at V-Guard.It is dedicated to extending its reach to areas of health, education and care. The trust provides health insurance cover for 1314 families from financially backward classes, 922 families at Tholur Panchayat, Kerala and 105 families in Ramanagaram Taluk in Bangalore, Karnataka. It also conducts free health camps at villages and backward areas where the reach of proper health care is absent. It sponsors the education of 1587 school children from economically backward sections in Thrissur and Ernakulam Districts in Kerala and Ramanagaram Taluk, Bangalore.The trust has also made substantial contributions to NGO’s working for various social welfare causes like Udhavumkarangal and the SOS village. It has also donated generously to many national level causes and relief funds like the Prime Minister's Relief Fund, Kargil war victims, relief for the earthquake victims of Latur and Gujarat, victims of the Orissa cyclone and the Tsunami Relief Fund of the Prime Minister as well as the Chief Minister. Shantimandiram An old age home for women, providing shelter and care for those who are unable to care of themselves in Parappur Village, Trissur, Kerala.It is managed by the Sisters of CMC Nirmala Province in whose able hands the inmates receive love and care irrespective of caste and community. The facility accommodates 60 inmates at a time and is recognised by the Board of Control for Orphanages and other Charitable Homes, Kerala. True to its name, all facilities are provided free of cost and it is a haven of peace and tranquility where the inmates spend the evening of their lives in dignity and comfort. Shanthimandiram celebrated its first anniversary on 29th May 2010 along with the I nmates. The function started with the blessings of Fr. Franko Kavalakkatt, Vicar, Parappur Forona Church.Various cultural programmes have been performed by the inmates of Shanthimandiram. The function got enriched with the Folk dance by Managing Trustee and family. The sisters of Shanthimandiram also involved with the cultural programmes. Social Welfare Fund- an employee CSR activity Social welfare consciousness being embedded in V-Guard work culture has motivated the employees to join hands in reaching out in charity. The Social Welfare Fund was created out of the goodwill of the employees who collate funds and donate towards cost of medicines for the poor in the cancer ward at the Ernakulam General Hospital.Stabilizer SHG activity Since its inception V-Guard has been providing a mutually beneficial income generating option to women. Women who have grouped themselves to form SHG’s (Self Help Groups) are distributed assembly kits for voltage stabilizers. An efficient distribu tion and collection system networks the women with the company and has been a resounding success for decades. It provides a stable income for their households and in turn emancipation from poverty. News | Investor Relations | CSR | Careers | Contact Us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Disclaimer | Site Map 2011 Voltage Stabilizers, Electrical Wires, Water Heaters, Water Pumps, Voltage Stabilizers| V-Guard Industries Ltd. All Rights Reserved Web Design powered by DREEME About us The V-Guard Management * V-Guard Story * Quality Control * CSR He is a post graduate in Science, majoring in Physics from Calicut University. He started his career as a supervisor in an electronics company, where he worked for three years. In the year 1977, he started a SSI Unit engaged in the manufacturing and selling of Electronic Voltage stabilizers. He is one of the founder Promoters and has motivated the Company to succeed in its business.He has been the Managing Director of the Company since its incept ion and has taken Company to its current levels of stature and recognition with his experience and vision. In April, 2012 he passed the baton on to his son Mr. Mithun Chittilapilly as the Managing Director, assuming the post of Executive Vice Chairman of the company and on November 1, 2012, when Shri. P. G. R. Prasad stepped down, he took over as the Chairman of the Board of Directors. He is the recipient of numerous awards, which were bestowed on him for his exemplary performance in business.Among them are Business Man of the Millennium 2000 from Rashtra Deepika, Tourism Man of the year from â€Å"Destination Kerala and Samman Pathra Award for top income tax payer from Hon'ble Union Minister of State for Finance. As the Managing Director, Mr. Kochouseph has been the main driving force behind the company's sustained growth. more >> Shri. Cherian N. Punnoose, a Fellow member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, joined V-Guard as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors. Fo rmerly Director of Finance at Kochi Refineries Ltd. (KRL), he was also on the Board of Pertonet CCK Ltd.He has 40 years of experience in the field of Finance, Audit and Administration. Served KRL for 25 years in various capacities prior to becoming a member of the Board of Directors. Prior to joining KRL he also served Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited and International Airports Authority of India. He has undergone short term training in Advanced Financial Management Techniques in Strathclyde Business School of the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK He is a postgraduate in commerce, Certified Financial Planner and a Research Scholar with School of Management Studies of Cochin University of Science and Technology.He joined the company as an Independent Director on 16th August 2007. He is a member of Executive Committee of National Stock Exchange of India Ltd. , National Securities Depository Ltd. , BNP Paribas Personal Investors, Paris and Cochin Chamber of Commerce and also a Man aging Committee member of ASSOCHAM and KMA. He is also a member of Confederation of Indian Industry, Kerala State Council and Capital Market Committee of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Charter member of Tie, Kerala.He has also been awarded the Business Man of Kerala by Business Deepika, Excellence Award from Kerala Management Association and Dhanam Business Man of the Year, 2006. Presently, he is the Managing Director of Geojit BNP Paribas Financial Services Ltd Mr. Nair was appointed as the Non Executive Independent Director of the Company on 27th May 2009. Mr. A K Nair holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with Masters in Business Administration and has over 45 years of Industry experience specially in the filed of Engineering, Finance and General Administration.Mr. A K Nair has served Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation and Nitta Gelatin India limited as Managing Director and is presently on the Director Board of many othe r companies. He is a post graduate in Finance from University of Melbourne, Australia. Mr. Mithun K Chittilappilly after completing his graduation in Commerce joined V-Guard to be trained in the various departments of the company, ranging from Finance to Marketing.In January 2005, he took a break from work for a year and a half to pursue his post graduation in Finance from University of Melbourne, Australia. After graduating in May 2006, he joined the Company as Executive Director and in 2012 was appointed as the Managing Director of the Company. Dr. Sleeba has been inducted as an Additional Director of the Company with effect from 27th May, 2010. He has also been appointed as the Joint Managing Director of the Company with effect from 1st June, 2010. Dr.George Sleeba is a Graduate in Mechanical Engineering with First Class Honours from Kerala University and M Tech in Industrial Engineering from IIT, Madras, Dr. Sleeba has a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from All India Managem ent Association (AIMA) and Doctorate in Social Sciences from the Cochin University of Science & technology (CUSAT). He has undergone a three month Senior Management programme as a Colombo Plan Scholar in UK organised by the British Council and holds a certificate in Training & Development from the Institute of Training & Development, UK.Dr. George Sleeba was the Former Chairman and Managing Director of FACT Ltd, a multidivisional corporation with more than Rs. 2300 Crores turnover and 4000 employees – the biggest Central PSU in the State of Kerala. He has proven managerial competence and academic excellence. He has more than 38 years of outstanding contribution to the industry in various functional areas of management, of which 30 years had been in FACT in senior management positions such as General Manager, Executive Director, Technical Director and as Chairman & Managing Director.He had been the Managing Director of two State Govt Undertakings – Travancore Cements Lt d and Travancore Sugars & Chemicals Ltd. He has also served as a Consultant to the Govt of Kerala for revival of sick units in the Public Sector. He is a member of the Industrial Relations Board of the Govt of Kerala. He is recognized as a turnaround specialist, credited with transforming the ailing FACT into a growth oriented, diversified, profit making company.In recognition of his contribution to the industry, he has been awarded the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for professional excellence in public sector, Padmasree Paul Pothen Award for professional excellence, Merit Award from FACT for outstanding performance, Jaycees Award for Processional Achievement, Rotary International Award for outstanding professional from industry, Life Time Achievement Award from NIPM from Palakkad Group, Outstanding Achievement Award for revival of FACT from Kerala Darshana Vedi an NGO.Management Discussions 1. ECONOMIC SCENARIO AND INDUSTRY OVERVIEWAfter the global economic recession, many of the world economies are growing in a slowpace even today; however, the Indian economy had showed faster recovery from the secondhalf of 2009-10 and has achieved robust and steady economic growth during the fiscal2010-11. With impressive growth in major sectors like agriculture, manufacturing,services, automobiles and realty, the country’s GDP rate has grown by 8. 5% during thefiscal 2010-11.Indian consumer industry also witnessed good growth during the year under review. Increasing urbanisation coupled with high disposable income of individuals and a surge inadvertising has been instrumental in bringing about a sea change in the consumer behaviorpattern and has resulted in increased consumer spend towards branded products both inrural and urban markets of India. 2. OVERALL PERFORMANCEV-Guard continues to enjoy a leading position in the electrical and electronic consumermarket in the country.With a large variety of products, strong brand equity and widelyspread distribution ch annel, the Company enjoys a unique position to cater to the consumerneeds of various segments. The Company achieved net sales of Rs. 726. 34 crores during theyear under review, charting a growth of 59. 96%, over the net sales of Rs. 454. 09 croresfor the previous year. Following the robust growth achieved in sales, the Company recordeda Net Profit of Rs. 39. 70 crores, without considering exceptional profit of Rs. 3. 63crores during the year under review, which is 55. 84 % more compared to the previous year.The contribution from Non-South Indian markets in the turnover is more than Rs. 160. 00crores in the fiscal 2010-11. The products that accounted more to achieve the sales werewires, stabilizers and pumps. BUSINESS REVIEW3. 1 VOLTAGE STABILIZERSThe Company’s flagship product Voltage Stabilizers has achieved a turnover of Rs. 166. 82 crores during the year under review, which is 23% of the total net sales. Pursuantto the surge in the consumer durable industry there was a sig nificant increase in the saleof white goods like refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines etc. which hasresulted in an increase in the sale of stabilizers for air conditioners, refrigerator etc.During the year under review, the product has grown by 44. 73% in value, when compared withthe sale of previous year. New models of stabilizers meant for air conditioners were introduced considering thelocal requirements of non-south Indian markets with reduced cost. New models were alsointroduced for tread mill, washing machine and micro wave oven. The Company’s persistent efforts o maintain the quality of the product, bringingout improvements on an on-going basis by introducing new models that meets the localmarket demands, focused R & D efforts and strong channel network across the country,have all contributed to maintain its dominant position in the sector. The main threat faced in the product line is the seasonal nature of many of the whitegoods and the aggressive campaig n by the manufacturers of the white goods stating that theappliance contains in-built stabilizers. Besides these, the increasing inflation rate,competition from the unbranded segment, improved power distribution etc.May hamper thefuture growth of the product. During the year under review, the Company came out with an ad campaign to overcome theimpact of the claim of the manufacturers of the white goods that their appliance containsin-built stabilizers which has helped to create awareness on the retailers and customershow the stabilizers protects the appliance during the power cut and also from the voltagefluctuation when the power comes back. Through this awareness creation ad, it was able tocreate a positive impact on the mindset of the consumers on the need for a stabilizer.Your Company is expecting the consumer industry to grow in a good pace in the currentfiscal and this will create an increased demand for appliances like LCD TV, refrigerators,air conditioners and consequently a n impressive growth in the stabilizers suitable forthese appliances. Focus is being given to expand the marketing network to rural marketsand other untapped markets as well as to increase the sale in the new segments ofstabilizers for LCD TVs, tread mill, washing machine etc. 3. 2 WIRING CABLESYour Company is one of the leading manufacturers of wires in the branded segment in thecountry.Total sales achieved in the wire segment for the year under review was Rs. 206. 05crores and it accounted for 28. 40% of the total net sales of the Company. Growth during the year under review was driven by the increased demand from sectorslike building and construction, automobile, aviation, energy, engineering andtelecommunications. Construction industry has revived considerably, after the economicslowdown and as a result, there is an overall improvement in the demand for wires. Thegrowth in the sales in terms of quantity and value was 35% and 68% respectively, whencompared with the sales of previo us fiscal.Capacity utilisation of the factories werealso considerably improved during the year under review. Increase in the volume andefficient purchase of raw-materials resulted in better sales growth and profitability. The major strength of this product segment is good network for distribution, increasedbrand image in south and non-south Indian markets and better quality of products. However,brand awareness is to be further increased in the non-south Indian market and efforts areto be made to procure more orders from Govt. departments, various public and privatesector organizations etc.Moreover, high volatility in the price of the majorraw-materials is one of the major reasons for low margin. Risk associated with theincrease in copper price can be mitigated by efficiently planning the procurement ofcopper and also keeping the inventory of wires at low levels. As major growth sectors in the country is expected to come out with impressive growthduring the fiscal 2011-12, the way ah ead for the product seems to be good and focus willbe given to tap the potential in the rural parts of the country and also increase themarket share of the non-south Indian market.As the construction industry is expected togrow further, efforts shall be made to procure more project / institutional orders. 3. 3 PUMPS AND MOTORSDuring the year under review, the Company was able to achieve moderate growth in thepump segment consisting of single and three phase pumps. Impressive sales was achieved inthe first half of the fiscal, however due to the extended monsoon, growth was sluggishduring the second half. Total sale achieved was Rs. 121. 00 crores, showing a growth of 42%over the sales achieved during the financial year 2009-10.The product line was able tocontribute 16. 65% of the total net sales of the Company. New models were introduced as per the geographical requirements and efforts were madeto increase the brand visibility especially in the non-south Indian markets and also inthe rural and semi urban areas. With the support of more below the line activities,increased penetration was achieved in respect of three phase pumps in tier II & tierIII cities. More number of Dealers were appointed in unrepresented areas of non-SouthIndian markets with a view to expand our marketing network.The Company was also able tointroduce 5 star rated models suited for different segments of customers. Sale of the product may get affected due to climatic conditions and also there is stiffcompetition from the players both in the organized and unorganised sectors. Non-availability of skilled man power from the industry may also hamper the growth of theproduct. Your Company is planning to give more concentration in new market segments withproducts like agricultural pumps, motors & industrial pumps and also three phase pumpsin a big way. 3. ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS ( GEYSERS)Electrical products segment has shown a good growth in the country during the yearunder review contributing to an impressive growth in the product line. Seasonal factorslike good monsoon rains, early winters in the northern parts of the country have alsofavoured the growth of the product. During the year under review, the total sale achievedwas Rs. 60. 00 crores which is 62% over the previous year’s sale of Rs. 37. 00 crores. Sale of Gas water heaters introduced in the previous year was extremely good.Dealer network for the product was considerably increased both in the urban as well asrural markets. During the year under review, more number of economy models was introducedbesides 5 star rated models that ensures reduction in the usage of energy. Your Companywas able to introduce vitreous enamel tank to increase the life of the tanks and thischange has been well accepted in the market. The product has got good market potential in non-south India due to the climaticcondition and the same can be capitalized by increasing the brand awareness and also theconfidence level of the Dealers.In case, the sale price of solar water heaters gets reduced considerably in future dueto alternate technology in manufacture or by grant of high subsidy by the Government,there is a likelihood of certain segment of customers shifting to solar water heatersthereby affecting the sale of electric water heaters to some extent. Moreover, powershortage prevalent in many parts of the country and increasing cost of power may alsoaffect the future growth potential of electric water heaters.Your Company is planning tointroduce new models and more star rated models to reduce energy consumption and forreduction in operational costs as a strategy to maintain the growth momentum. 3. 5 SOLAR WATER HEATERS:With a view to conserve electrical energy by curtailing power consumption in house holdappliances and industrial equipment, the Government is encouraging the use of alternate orrenewable energy in place of electrical energy in a massive way. Further, to encourage theuse of solar thermal devices for heating water, the Government has introduced subsidy tothe end consumer.Many nationalized banks are also providing loans at cheaper interestrates for purchase of solar water heaters. Many of the state governments in the countryhave mandated the use of solar water heaters in commercial segments facilitating increasedsale of higher capacity industrial and commercial models. These steps are expected toaccelerate the growth of the solar water heater industry in the coming years. To take advantage of the emerging scenario, your Company has introduced solar waterheaters with improved and innovative designs for varying applications with a view toexpand its market share in domestic and commercial segments.During the year under review,the marketing network for sales of solar water heaters was reorganized with introductionof direct sales to customers in major cities, to facilitate getting more project orders. Your Company is also enjoying superior technology in the manufacture of solar water heaters that give longer life of inner steel tanks, thus providing an edge over thecompetitors in the segment. All these efforts have resulted in increasing the turnover of solar water heaters toRs. 22. 00 crores during the year under review registering a growth of 34% over theprevious year’s turnover of Rs. 6. 40 crores. Considering the future growth potential, your Company is on the threshold of setting upa major manufacturing facility for solar water heater with improved technology atPerundurai, near Erode, Tamil Nadu, in the land taken on lease from SIPCOT and the newmanufacturing unit is expected to be commissioned by the third quarter of the fiscal2011-12. This improved technology is intended to mitigate the present problem of corrosionof inner tank of solar water heaters in hard water areas. An investment of Rs. 8. 00 croresis envisaged for the project.Your Company has also initiated the process for obtainingCRISIL rating for Solar Water Heater – Division, that will help the consumers toavail the subsidy announced by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)while making purchases of solar water heaters. However, possibility of further increase inlending rates may have a negative impact on the purchase of solar water heaters utilizingthe loans from commercial banks. 3. 6 FANSGrowth in the electrical products segment in the country has supported the fan industryalso to achieve an impressive growth in the year under review.In 2010-11, your Companyachieved a net sale of Rs. 53. 00 crores, which shows 107% growth over the net sale of Rs. 25. 60 crores, recorded in the previous year. Good range of products in the ceiling fansand new models of table, pedestal and wall mounting fans through imports and decorativemodels in ceiling fans have enabled the Company to achieve higher sales and improve theprofitability in the product line. The Company was also able to improve the sale in thenon-south Indian market by appointing more number of channe l partners and alsoconcentrating in the rural markets of various parts of the country.As the booming construction industry is expected to give a fillip to the electricalsegment industry, Your Company is confident of increasing its market share in the comingyears in the product line. It is also planned to appoint more number of dealers in theunrepresented areas to expand our marketing network. Your Company is also carrying outcontinuous R & D activities in its pilot production unit located at Kala Amb, toreduce the cost of production, improve the quality and reliability and to introduce lessenergy consuming models.More thrust is also given to capture more projects orders both from the Public andPrivate sector organizations. It is also proposed to introduce industrial exhaust fans tomeet the requirement of industry in the coming years. Sale of the product is highly dependent on the seasonality and also the growth in therealty sector. If the climatic conditions are not favourable, the sale may get affected. Moreover, competition from the unorganized sector is also a threat. To overcome thecompetition from the unorganized sector, your Company is involved in increasing its brandawareness by doing Below The Line activities.With continuous R&D and withintroduction of more models of energy efficient fans, your Company is confident ofincreasing its market share and profitability in the coming year. 3. 7 POWER & CONTROL CABLESYour Company embarked into manufacture and marketing of LT Cables in 2009 by setting upa manufacturing facility at Coimbatore. LT Power and Control cables are mainly used inpower generation and distribution plants and also in electrical systems within thepremises. As the power sector and construction industry are growing at a faster rate, goodgrowth potential is expected for the product. The Company achieved a net sales of Rs. 2. 00 crores, during the year under review and registered a growth of 165% over theprevious year. Order book consists of cl ients from major organizations from public andprivate sectors. Good brand image, consistency in quality of products and network withstrong dealers are the main growth drivers in the product line.The Company plans to grow further in the coming fiscal and increase its capacityutilization by getting more orders from Govt. and private institutions. 3. 8 UNINTERRUPTED POWER SUPPLY (UPS) SYSTEMSDuring the year under review, India’s personal computer (PC) market registered agrowth f 30% which is the highest since the year 2007. Nearly 25,00,000 PCs were shippedto Indian consumers, raising the overall sales by 26 per cent in the period. The demandfor UPS in India is expected to be robust, especially from rural and semi-urban areas,where the rapid development in the IT infrastructure and elongated power cuts and loadshedding is more, compared to what urban areas experience. During the year under review,the product line UPS has made an incremental growth in sales both in terms of value andvolume.Your Company was able to achieve net sales of Rs. 7. 00 crores, therebyregistering a growth of 56% over the previous year’s sale of Rs. 17. 36 crores. The factors that drive sustainable growth in this segment are the quality andreliability of products, competitive prices, availability of the product through a widedistribution network and prompt after sales service support. Your Company is adoptingstrategies for penetrating the B and C class cities to ensure growth in this product line. Growth is also expected from hospitality industry as well as educational institutions,where the usage of UPS is more.However, UPS is as an ancillary product of desktop computers and the demand of UPSdepends directly on the demand of desktop computers. The sales growth of Laptops isindirectly affecting the sales of UPS in the Tier I and Tier II Cities. Your Company istaking steps to increase the range of models in the category of Line Interactive UPS andonline UPS for wide range of ap plications as a strategy for increasing sales. 3. 9 DIGITAL HOME UPSDigital Home UPS industry is poised to grow aggressively in the coming years.The acutepower shortage and load shedding stipulated by various State Governments and frequent longhour power failures have contributed to the growth of the product line in a big way. During the year under review, net sale achieved was Rs. 22. 00 crores, registering a growthof 150% over the previous year’s sale of Rs. 8. 77 crores. In the year under review,the product reach was increased by making it available throughout the country byappointing number of Direct Marketing Associates and strengthening the marketing network.Your Company has also introduced battery for the Digital UPS during the fiscal 2010-11. Considering the huge market potential, the Company is confident of increasing the salesmany fold in the coming years. 4. OPPORTUNITIES & THREATSYour Company is engaged in the manufacturing and marketing of various products whichf orms part of the segments like electronic and electrical, consumer durable, agriculture,construction and power. Sales growth of the each product vertical is having a direct nexuswith development of the core sectors of the economy.As the Indian economy is on a fastgrowing pace, all the key sectors are also showing excellent growth. The Indian consumerdurable industry witnessed a tremendous growth during the year under review. Changinglifestyle, higher disposable income coupled with greater affordability, boom in the realestate and housing industry and a surge in advertising has been instrumental in bringingabout a sea change in the consumer behavior pattern. Rural markets and small towns haveshown promising demand for durables and prosperity in rural India has been one of themajor driving forces for rural growth.Though the economy is growing in a fast manner, the high inflation prevalent in thecountry may affect the growth of the sectors like construction, consumer durables,agricultu re etc. It may also affect the purchasing power of the people and slow down themovement of white goods. Besides, consumers are more aware of energy efficient appliancesas they are proactively asking for star-rated refrigerators, air conditioners, waterheaters, pumps etc. If the Company fails to introduce energy saving models, it will befacing difficult situation to market the products.Moreover, in the highly inflationaryregime, price of the raw-materials may increase considerably leading to increased cost ofproduction. Attempts to pass on the price escalation to the consumer, may lead to, peopleopting for unbranded products, considering the price variation. 5. FUTURE OUTLOOKThe Indian economy is expected to maintain the growth momentum in the coming years. With the existing product range and by introducing new models which suits with the localrequirements of various markets and by providing good after sales service, your Directorsare confident of achieving desired growth levels and improve the profitability further.Possibility of adding one or two products coming in the home appliance segment is alsounder consideration. Thrust will be given to strengthen the existing manufacturingfacilities by making additional investment wherever required. Efforts will be taken toimprove the brand awareness in the new markets and more penetration will be made in thesemi-urban and rural areas. 6. RISKS AND RISK MITIGATIONThe Company has an Enterprise Wide Risk Management System in place and has laid downprocedures for risk assessment and its mitigation.A two level committee monitors therisks and its mitigation measures on a regular basis. The lower level consists of 4Product Risk groups each headed by a VP and comprising of concerned product heads andrepresentatives from other functions like Finance, Systems, Customer Service, HumanResource, Legal etc. The apex body, known as Risk Management Team is headed by theExecutive Director and comprise of Sr. Vice Presidents, Vice Pres idents, Chief RiskOfficer, Assistant Risk Officer and heads of various Product Risk Groups as members.The Product Risk Groups holds periodical meetings and review the risks and mitigationmeasures in the respective product groups and submit their reports along with the minutesof the meetings to the Risk Management Team, which review and consolidate the Risk reportand submit quarterly reports before the Audit Committee for its review and recommendationto the Board. The Company is also maintaining Risk Registers for each product and the sameare updated on regular basis.

Franchise Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

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Finance 4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Finance 4 - Essay Example For the size of the area and the number of consumers, Its more easier to establish a market at the least cost. Not just the consumers, In Japan the well equipped and advanced cheap labour force with valuable expertise helps in controlling the production costs hence by gaining more profits which is practically not possible in the United States of America where the labour cost in enormous. The high Japanese GDP shows the technological and economic standard of the country which surely can attract American industry to set up its business. As the facts can be considered, the Japanese market constitutes to 75% of the entire Asiatic market and thus controls the Asiatic market. The high rate of saving in Japan allows the people in Japan to purchase goods if he likes even at a higher price as he/she will have the financial assets. A well-organized infrastructure in the fields of commodity distribution and information and communication; and a good business environment with improved laws and sy stems is an added advantage for the American companies. The Communication advancements and the connectivity by all the 3 modes such as Air, water and land make Japan a favourite FDI place for Americans. The currency exchange rates tempt America the most for them to invest in Japan, The exchange rate being 108.180 Japanese Yen for one US Dollar according to www.xe.com. The inflation also accounts to -.06% so its more reasonable for the company to produce the products in an economical way. Other than that, the Japanese External Trade Organisation called JETRO assists Individual investor with the meetings, laws who is specialised in the international investments and taxations. JETRO also provides free use of private office for a period of maximum 2 months for private bodies and a maximum of 6 months for public bodies. Japan also provides 30% depreciation rate or a tax credit of 7% up to 20% of the corporate tax liability for the purchase of certain machinery and equipments.

Art Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Art Assignment - Essay Example Space in drawing implies the negative and positive use of space in a drawing (Sale, Teel & Betti, 89). Positive space is the space that the object covers while negative space is the background of the picture. In Napoletanos picture, the artist has used a lot of negative space in his work, while, in Bertin’s drawing, the artist has used a lot of positive space. At times, use of a lot of negative space makes the drawing look vulnerable and aloof (Sale, Teel & Betti, 89). Perspective in the drawing is the image as seen by the eye as per the distance and on a flat surface. Napoletano’s drawing lacks proper perspective as the drawing shortens with an increase in the distance, and foreshortens along the line of sight as compared to Bertin’s drawing whose focal point gets better with an increase in distance. A contour in the drawing is the outline depicting change in plane (Sale, Teel & Betti, 90). In Napoletano’s drawing the artist used modified contour drawing unlike in Bert’s drawing the artist used blind contours. Napoletano’s drawing was done using gesture drawing because the picture looks hastily done. On the other hand, Bert’s looks as if it had taken time to draw. Finally, tone usages in both pictures are similar. The effects of light in the pictures show balance. The pictures are alike and diverse in a variety of ways, but they are successful in their own light. Napoleatano’s drawing might be small, but it is well structured just like Bert’s picture, which is large, and well

American literature Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

American literature - Essay Example A similar situation is observed in both the novel â€Å"Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl† by Harriet Jacobs and â€Å"Personal narrative† by Edward Jonathan. Both the writers present the readers with an autobiographical account in their own unique way and it also forms a major theme of both the works because although they are talking about their experiences yet the context, the experience and the style of narration is completely different but still the same. â€Å"Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl† is a detailed account of Harriet Jacob’s life as a slave during the 19 century. The novel is narrated in first person and the writer used the pseudonym Linda Brent in order to get her work published. The first person narration style creates a very close and direct relationship between the reader and the text because through this technique the author is able to make the readers his/her confidant. Although such a narrative presents a myopic view of the wh ole yet emotional impact is stronger in this type of narration. Furthermore the fact that the writer used a pseudonym to get her novel published is also of great importance as it highlights the author’s desperation to keep her identity a secret because of her fear of being recognized. Though the writer says that, â€Å"The slave girl is reared in an atmosphere of licentiousness and fear† () yet it did not deter her from enlightening the world about her situation as well as that of her fellow women. As it is stated in the preface of the novel that, â€Å"I do earnestly desire to arouse the women of the North to a realizing sense of the condition of two millions of women at the South, still in bondage, suffering what I suffered, and most of them far worse† (3). Hence these lines very aptly explain the motivation and the desire that forced Jacobs to write an autobiographical account of her life. Hence it is observed that such a genuine and emotionally rich account of the Jacob’s life not only evokes feelings of pity and sympathy but also teaches the readers a great deal about the manner in which women were treated at the time and the manner in which they deserve to be treated. As Jacobs mentions in the novel, â€Å"When he told me that I was made for his use, made to obey his command in everything; that I was nothing but a slave, whose will must and should surrender to his† (). The treatment of women is an issue which has been of grave importance for the past couple of centuries and this novel is a good reminder of the injustices that women suffer. Moreover this autobiographical account also explores the psychology of women and their insecurities as it is apparent from the lines, I was an object of her jealousy, and, consequently, of her hatred; and I knew I could not expect kindness or confidence from her under the circumstances in which I was placed. I could not blame her. Slaveholders' wives feel as other women would under si milar circumstances (). These lines not only explicate the insecurities of a woman who fears for her family but it also throws light on the writer’s wisdom at such a young age to be able to judge the appalling situation in which her fate had put her. Then again other issues like racism, slavery and role of religion are also discussed in this autobiograph

Business ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Business ethics - Essay Example Application of ethics into businesses has expanded the role of businesses in the economy. According to the classical economic theory however, the firms are driven by the primary objective to maximize profits while consumers are driven by the primary objective to maximize the self satisfaction which is known as utility. Hence the producers and consumers in the economy are motivated by profits and losses as measured in terms of dollars and cents rather than any moral value. Moreover, such profit maximizing production procedures may not be the ethical approach when the social and environmental concerns are addressed. Therefore, a theoretical ambiguity appears in what is the ethical conduct in business. When a company rigidly adheres to a marketing policy which focuses only on short run benefits it can suffer severe economic losses in the long run (Ferrell et al., 2012). Example, marginal declining of value of housing assets in the USA market ended up resulting in bankruptcy of Lehman Br others in the USA and BNP Paribas in France. Laiki Bank in Cyprus also ended up in bankruptcy as a result of unethical business strategies. In other words attempting profit out of thin year caused the recent financial market failure. Moreover, negligence of duty can result in lives lost to the society as well as losses to the companies (Guerra, 2013). An ethical dilemma is created when an individual company, a community or consumers are not in control of all the factors that influence their choices example, when the government interventions in open market operations lead certain companies into bankruptcy. Government interventions in the markets are identified in terms of price subsidizing, taxing, and imposing trade barriers which are aimed at achieving specific developmental goals, national food security and self sufficiency, reducing poverty, reducing market power and protecting the public goods. However, there are noneconomic, political motivations for interfering in the markets by the government example, for financing a war. Moral Issues in Financial Market Failures Banking failure is defined as a situation in which banks are closed from operation because of the financial difficulties (Gunsel, 2007). There can be a number of bad monetary policies which may cause banking failure. A number of moral issues also arise relevant to bank failures. For example, banks operate according to the policies which are set by the government i.e. policies are defined in the bank’s external environment. Even though an individual firm may foresee its bankruptcy it can have little to no control over the tragic destiny lying ahead. Government intervening in markets is identified as a market failure in neo-classical economics theory because it can disrupt the optimal resource allocation and create deadweight loss to the social welfare. Free market structure is identified as the most efficient economy. The three case studies described in the following chapter bare evidence s as to how bad fiscal and monetary policies can result in bankruptcy of the firms. Not only the external policy environment but unethical firm level policies can also lead companies into bankruptcy. The recent Subprime Mortgage Crisis Friedman, 2009, describes the cause of global financial crisis which occurred during the past decade in terms of following government interv

HUMAN RESOURCE RESEARCH PAPERS Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

HUMAN RESOURCE PAPERS - Research Paper Example The employees at all levels have a major part to play in this regard and they should take the collective effort to prevent any such situation in the organization. If any such situation arises in any organization then the management of the organization has to pay a very high price for that in terms of legal compensation or the ruining of the reputation of the company (Decenzo, 2013). Thus it is important to understand the issue from the perspective of the employees and that of the victims and how it can be prevented or dealt with in case any such situation arises. Since prevention is always better than cure hence the employer or the managers should always take a necessary step to prevent the occurrence of any such situation. They should ensure that there is no gender discrimination and every individual working in the organization should have respect for the sexual orientation of the fellow colleagues. The managers should implement a policy such that any such situation can be prevented and the code of conduct that the employees should follow in the organization should be mentioned to all the employees working (Paludi and Paludi 2003). The employees should be aware of the actions and legal steps that would be taken against the person who would commit such a belittling crime. In case such an incident occurs immediate investigation and timely action needs to be taken against the person committing the crime. The company in no way should try to safeguard such an employee even if he holds some high position in office. The employees of a company also have the duty to ensure that there is no prevailing hostility in the environment of their particular department. If an employee is apprehensive about the behavior of any co worker then the person should immediately report it to the higher management and seek for corrective action. Immediate action has to be taken by the

Differences Between Rural and Urban Emergency Medical Services Essay

Differences Between Rural and Urban Emergency Medical Services - Essay Example Frontier areas are the most sparsely populated areas of the United States. According to the 2000 U.S. Census, this area covers about 56% of the land and 3% of the U.S. population, and includes rural farm land, natural resources, national parks, and military installations (2000 Update, 2002). There are more miles of rural roads than any other type of roadway in the United States, and it is on these roads that around 60% of fatal accidents occur. In keeping with the 60% fatality figure, "rural" is defined as anything bordering population centers of 5,000 or less (Complexity, 2004). The challenge for EMS in responding to a crash scene becomes greater in rural areas because of geography, distances, and budget constraints. The Traffic Safety Center reports that, "on average, the rural area EMS response times come dangerously close to exceeding that critical window of opportunity beyond which mortality rates rise drastically" (Complexity, 2004, par. 19). This period of time is known as the "Golden Hour," and the ability of EMS to arrive at the scene in time becomes a factor in whether a fatality occurs. Comparing urban and rural EMS is difficult because of differing urban-rural population characteristics and roles for rural ambulance teams. A comparison of services in Nebraska, for instance (Stripe & Susman, 1991) showed a higher percentage of elderly in the rural county, almost twice that of the urban area. Similar advanced life support measures were applied in both rural and urban areas. In North Dakota, an assessment made between 1999-2001 (Rural Emergency, 2002) showed that EMS in rural areas were experiencing significant problems due to: 1. Sparse populations over large geographic areas. 2. State and local governments in rural areas with lower capacity for funding through taxes. 3. Rural economies having difficulty maintaining and upgrading services. 4. Dependency of rural EMS on volunteer personnel, not always fully trained or sufficiently available. Third party payers such as Medicare tend to view EMS as a transportation service, not a medical care service. Although the public has been aware of EMS's medical capabilities since the early 1970s, many third party payers continue to be oblivious of them after 30 years of EMS successes (Emergency: Future Challenges, 2006). Accelerating Factors Affecting EMS The safety net of the EMS is further affected by an "aging population, increased number of automobile injuries and an explosion of crime-related injuries in metropolitan areas. . . . [and] injuries from farm, industrial and outdoor sport accidents have overburdened EMS systems" [in rural areas] (Chang et al, 2001, par. 1). Reliance on volunteers in rural areas is far greater than in urban areas and the volunteer pool is becoming depleted. Primary revenue streams for EMS are fees for service (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, private pay, and special services contracts. EMS is largely a locally financed enterprise, and financing of rural and frontier EMS is a particular problem because of low volume of calls in relationship to overhead costs of full-time preparedness (Center for Health, 2001). Federal and state level education resources

Assignment About Google Essay Example for Free

Assignment About Google Essay The question requires the student to evaluate how successful Nintendo Wii has been in meeting the needs of today’s gaming through new product development. The answer here is dependent on the student’s ability to analyse and evaluate the case study. The students are expected to make reference to retail marketing mix in their answer. Students’ answer should include the following or other equivalent answers: Considerations when developing new product strategy: i. Ongoing Corporate Planning ii. Ongoing Market Planning iii. Ongoing Technology Management iv. Opportunity Analysis/Serendipity . Market Penetration vi. Market Development vii. Product Development viii. Diversification Application of Pearson’s Uncertainty Map: i. Exploratory Research ii. Development Engineering iii. Applications Engineering iv. Combining Market Opportunities Question 2 Based on the case study, how can Nintendo Wii better manage innovation as a competitive tool in the field of developmental gaming? Answer: The question requires the student to identify organization characteristics and further recommend organization changes to facilitate innovation process within Nintendo Wii. The answer here is dependent on the student’s ability to analyse and give reason for choosing any relevant issues. The organization characteristics that facilitate the innovation process, students’ answer should include the following or other equivalent answers: i. Growth orientation ii. Vigilance and external links iii. Commitment to technology and Ramp;D intensity iv. Acceptance of risks v. Cross function cooperation and coordination within the organization structure vi. Receptivity to change vii. Space for creativity viii. Strategy towards innovation ix. Diverse range of skills Question 1 | Percentage| | Background of the case should be clearly discussed. | 15%| 2| Feasible application should be discussed in depth| 15%| 3| Identify the multi-dimensional concept of float glass technology. | 10%| 4| Use of proper language, grammar, referencing, and acknowledgement of external sources| 10%| | | | | Total| 50%| | | | Question 2 | | 1| Explain the dilemma, recognize the difficulties of managing uncertainty. | 20%| 2| Answers should be justified and must be logical and critical. | 20%| 3| Use of proper language, grammar, referencing, and acknowledgement of external sources| 10%| | Total| 50%| Marking Scheme

Moral reasoning and classroom conduct Essay Example for Free

Moral reasoning and classroom conduct Essay The article duplicates a research method previously used by two of the current researchers George Bear and Herbert Richards in 1981 in their research â€Å"Moral reasoning and conduct problems in the classroom. † Each of the 87 male and female participants were assessed for their individual levels of moral reasoning using Kohlberg’s Moral Judgment Interview, Form A by the research assistant. Their classroom behavior was assessed by their teachers using the Conduct Scale of the Behavior Problem Checklist. One of the strengths of the research methodology was that the teachers were blind to the results of the Moral Judgment Interview. This ensured that the teachers did not make a judgment on students’ behaviors based on the assessment of moral reasoning. The scores from these two instruments were therefore independent. Additionally, to further decrease potential rater bias the twelve interview protocol were randomly selected and scored by an independent judge. The scores produced by the research assistant and the independent judge were compared and a high level of correlation was found. Another strength is that there was pre-screening of research participants. Screening ensured equitable representation based on stage of moral reasoning, sex and grade level. The researchers justify eliminating the seven participants with stage one moral reasoning from data analysis on the grounds that this would facilitate easier duplication. This decision is still questionable since neither the current research, nor the one it replicates has accounted for the conduct of stage one students. Thus there is still a gap in the literature on how this category of students rate on their classroom conduct. One major weakness of the study is in the data collection procedures. The classroom conduct of the participants is based on the assessment of teachers. While teachers are the ones who work more intimately with students and are in a better position to assess behavioral outcomes, teacher bias often produces inaccurate data (Reynolds, 1991). As in the case of the interviews, some measures should have been put in place to diminish possible evaluator bias. Another limitation of the study is that the researchers recruited participants from both the elementary and high school levels yet did not make any controls for how this factor could have influenced either moral reasoning or conduct. The nature of the school environment can have an influence on these variables and thus, to ensure uniformity of survey conditions, it is advisable to utilize similar type schools for the survey setting. Where that is not possible or where the researchers desire to recruit participants from different school environments, the necessary controls for these factors need to be discussed in the presentation of data. 1. Identify the primary question(s) of the article. The researchers wanted to discover if the results discovered by Bear and Richards (1981) on the influence of stage of moral development on classroom conduct of middle-class students in Iowa was replicable among culturally diverse students of different ages and grade levels. They also wanted to discover if the influence of moral stage on conduct varied based on sex. 2. Identify the theoretical construct that is being used. The theoretical foundation of the research is Kohlberg’s theory of moral development. This theory postulates that individuals are at different stages of moral development ranging from one to six with each stage hierarchically higher than the other. He further stipulates that moral reasoning impacts and determines observable behavioral outcomes in different life situations. With respect to the classroom setting Kohlberg concludes that the lower the level of moral reasoning, the more disruptive behaviors will be displayed in the classroom and consequently the higher the level of moral reasoning the less problematic behaviors will be carried out in the classroom. 3. Recommend an alternative quantitative approach that could have been used for this study and support your rationale. In order to assess the classroom conduct of students I would recommend, as an alternative to the teacher-evaluated Conduct Scale of the Behavior Problem Checklist, that taped observations of classroom practice be utilized. In this approach the researchers would obtain permission from school administrators and teachers to tape two typical classroom sessions each, with a one-week interval in between. In the three school environments one classroom at each level will be included in the study. There would be one fourth-grade and one fifth-grade classroom at each of the two elementary schools and two eighth grade classrooms at the high school to give a total of six classrooms and twelve video-taped sessions. Independent evaluators would score the classroom behaviors of each of the students in the classroom independently and then their scores will be correlated to ensure inter-rater reliability. The behavior problem checklist would form the criteria for assessment of the videotapes and would be completed for each student in each classroom independently. Missing data would be eliminated from the study during analysis. The strength of this method is that it eliminates the bias that has customary been associated with teacher-evaluated instruments and thus would give a more reliable and hence valid indication of the classroom conduct of students. Classroom teachers will not be briefed as to the complete purpose of the survey so as to eliminate the influence they may exert on classroom conduct in the classroom. Additionally this method ensures that there is consistency in what behaviors are considered and how these behaviors are categorized. The evaluators of video tapes will be standardized prior to the actual evaluation procedure. Bibliography Reynolds, A. J. (1991). Early schooling of children at risk. Education Research Journal, 28, 392-422. Richards, H. C. , Stewart, A. L. , Bear, G. G. (1984). Moral reasoning and classroom conduct: A replication. Paper presented at the 92nd Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association. Toronto, Ontario, Canada: APA. Bear, G. G. , Richards, H. C. (1981). Moral reasoning and conduct problems in the classroom. Journal of Educational Psychology, 73, 644-670.

Communication And Social Development In Society

Communication And Social Development In Society A society can neither exist without communication nor can a social structure survive without it. The multi faceted development (economic, social, political and cultural) have further asserted the importance of communication in human life. Successful communication is the key to all social relationships and environments personal or professional. What is Communication? Communication is something so simple and difficult that we can never put it in simple words. Various sociologists, educationists and psychologists have defined communication in different ways and according to the disciplines to which they belong. According to Legans communication is an act of getting a sender and a receiver tuned together for a particular massage or series of messages. Schramm says, it occurs between two corresponding systems accompanied through one or more non-corresponding systems, resulting in an identical status to establish commonness. Others like Howland, Warren Weaver, Gist, Loomis and Beegles etc. have defined communication in their respective ways, but one can conclude that it is a social interaction, that transfers the thoughts or ideas from one person or group to another so that it could be understood and acted upon. The more homogenous a group is, the effective the communication. In the 21st Century, everyone in the world can compete on an equal footing with everyone else. Therefore the difference between success and failure will be the ability to communicate and to understand. Communication is a continuous activity. It is the two way process. It is an act of sharing knowledge, feeling, ideas, information with the use of words, facial expressions, gestures, body movement and often silence, that takes its meaning from the situation. The communication situation exist when: there is a person (sender or transmitter) desirous of passing on some information; there is another person (receiver) to whom the information is to be passes on; the receiver partly or wholly understands the message passed on to him; the receiver responds to the message i.e., there some kind of feedback. The communication situation cannot exist in the absence of any of these four components. Consultant Faculty Member, Center for English Language Training (CELT), College of Engineering, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500007. e-mail: [emailprotected] Communication is the lifeblood of the world. In todays globalized world, communication is essential for life. Communication is more than just a matter of speaking and hearing. Good communication, on the other hand, means that your message will be sent and that the people understand the message in its entirety. Further, they are much more likely to respond in a positive manner if the message was communicated effectively. A poorly communicated message will result in an unfavorable response. You cannot have human relations without communication. However, good and effective communication is required not only for good human relations but also for good social development. Types of Communication Verbal oral and written Non-Verbal expression, expressive behaviors and body language Communication Distinctions Formal/Informal Official/unofficial information exchange Vertical/Horizontal Superior Subordinates/peers Personal/Impersonal Situation of mutual influence/exchange without mutual influence Instrumental/Expressive Necessary for job/non-job information transmission Principles of Communication In order to make our communication effective we should follow certain scientific principles. They are shown in the Figure 1. Figure 1 Courtesy Consideration Conciseness Completeness Clarity Correctness Principles Of Communication Clarity For clarity of expression: use simple, easy-to-understand words, use single words for long phrases, use concrete expressions that have a visual impact on the mind and will be easy to remember, prefer active constructions, which are direct, avoid jargon. Completeness For completeness ask: who, what, where, when and, why. Conciseness For conciseness: only relevant facts, no repetition, no verbosity, proper organization of the message. Consideration For consideration: avoid gender bias, emphasize positive, pleasant facts. Courtesy Courtesy begets courtesy: so make your message courteous, use empathy, be respectful by not fawning, be brief, clear and courteous. Correctness Correctness implies: giving correct facts, at an appropriate time, in a suitable style. Conditions for Effective Communication Scholz describes some of the factors which influence the effectiveness of communication. The credibility of the communicator and the motive attributed to him have a profound influence on the reception of his message. The most successful communications are those which reinforce at least some of the audiences beliefs, those which state conclusions as well as premises and those which call for action. People are interested first in people, then in things, last in ideas. Their attitudes and opinions are strongly influenced by the groups to which they belong or want to belong. It is better to communicate information little by little over a period of time than all at once. Repeating a communication obviously prolongs its influence. Short sentences, familiar words and active verbs help to make communication both interesting and persuasive. In changing opinions, an oral presentation tends to be more effective than the written word. Only rarely is it possible for communication, particularly over the short range, to impart deep-seated attitudes or beliefs. Mass communication alone is hardly ever an effective agent of change. Communication in Education Traditional education always neglected communication. When we talk of communication skills in the field of education, it not only points at the provider, supplier or teachers but also it is equally important to develop this art among the recipients or the students. Quest of knowledge, search of truth, urge of understanding have resulted in identifying communication as the ultimate factor in making education effective. Communication is an art and if used scientifically in education it can create wonders. Communication in Industries Communication is a valuable skill. If you possess strong communication skills, this will go far in effectively helping you communicate in both your personal and professional lives. Being able to successfully communicate in business is a prime qualification many employers actively look for when hiring new staff. When conducting business we interact with different people, including, but not limited to customers, bosses, colleagues and subordinates. Depending on the nature of business we may also interact with other agencies or partnering organizations. No matter the industry, if we work for the private or public sector, or what our line, grade or position is, it is a guarantee communication will somehow prominently play a part in our daily routine. Your communication skills not only reflect upon you but your business. Organizations want to ensure they hire candidates who possess these dexterities. Once in the position our communication skills illuminate a statement about both yourself and our company, and well want to present a positive image. Projecting poor communication skills may paint us or our organization in a negative light. Communication and Globalization Culture, Communication and Globalization are focused on issues related to intercultural and international approaches to the ways in which culture, communication and globalization interplay with the world around us. Today India is developing fast vertically in the field of industry, trade, education etc., but if the efforts are put at individual level in the area of communication whether interpersonal or intrapersonal, the horizontal development in terms of quality could be also achieved at the desirable rate.

The Philosophy of Sex and Gender in Russia Essay examples -- Feminism

The Philosophy of Sex and Gender in Russia This presentation focuses on the main philosophical approaches toward analyzing the notions of "sex" and "gender" in Russia since the nineteenth century. I analyze the conceptions and ideas which were developed by Aleksey Khomyakov, Nicolai Chernyshevsky, Leo Tolstoy, Fedor Dostoevsky, Vladimir Solovyov and some other philosophers. Then, I discuss the concept of emancipation of women within the framework of Marxist-Leninist theory, which played a role in the state's "women's philosophy" in the Soviet period, and within the existing modern viewpoints. My methodology is based on concepts and guidelines developed in feminist philosophy. One of the goals, as put forward by feminist philosophy, is to discover the gender determinateness of the metatheoretical foundations of science and traditional Western humanitarianism and of philosophy. This problem can be quite successfully solved on the basis of Western philosophic studies. Russian philosophy, however, has not so far become a subject of feminist analysis either in Russia or in the West. Therefore, my research in this field could be considered rather novel. This presentation focuses on the main philosophical approaches toward analyzing the notions of "sex" and "gender" in Russia. First of all, I mean the last century's philosophy of sex and the theology of gender, the concept of emancipation of women within the framework of the Marxist-Leninist theory of women's emancipation, which played the role of state "women's philosophy" in the Soviet period, and the existing modern viewpoints. My methodology is based on concepts and guidelines, developed in the feminist philosophy and presented inter alia in the works of Genevieve Lloyd, ... ...a and R.Tong. Gender/Body/Knowledge: Feminist Reconstructions of Being and Knowing. (1989).Ed.Alison M. Jaggar and Susan R. Bordo. Harding S. and Hintikka M. (eds) (1983). Discovering Reality: Feminist Perspectives on Epistemology, Metaphysics and Philosophy of Science. Khomyakov A. (1988). About old and new. In Russian. Kollontai A. (1909). Social basis of women's question. In Russian. Lloyd G. (1984). The Man of Reason. The "Male" and "Female" in Western Philosophy. Tolstoy, L. (1987). Collection of works, vol. 11. In Russian. Solovyov V. (1988). Collection of works in two volums.. Moscow. t. 2. In Russian. Solovyov V. (1911). Russia and Universal Chirch. Moscow. In Russian. Voronina O. (1994). The Mythology of Women's Emancipation in the USSR as the Foundation for a Policy of Discrimination. In Women in Russia (ed. by A.Posadskaya ).

Beneficial Pets Essay -- essays research papers

Would you like to live a happy and productive life? Then get pets! I must admit it is hard to believe that domesticated animals can promote mental and physical health, but many studies have shown that they can. On the other hand, you must find a pet that is compatible with you or with your life style. Maintaining good mental health is crucial for living a "normal" life. Many psychiatrists have found that patients with anger management problems can be calmer with a pet around the house. Sometimes, just the feel of a pet in the house can do wonders on the nerves and eliminate certain aggravation. A significant point that have been brought up by animal right activists is that abuse inflicted on animals is, in many cases caused by frustration caused by an outside conflict. Outside conflicts can be caused by work stress, school, and/or relationships. On the other hand, if you have control of your temper your should have nothing to worry about. I have found that having multiple pets around can be difficult, but with the hard work comes satisfaction and happiness. Personally, I own two birds and six fish; my two birds are in separate cages, so they do not fight or maybe even kill each other! In my fish tank, there is no predatory fish, which would endanger the other fish in the tank. Separating animals that could do harm to each other is a good method for ensuring their safety. In addition, you must remember to spend an equal amount of time with your pets†¦ even your...

Good and Evil in Good Country People Essay examples -- people

Good and Evil in Good Country People  Ã‚   In her short story, Good Country People,  Flannery O’Connor employs all the elements of humor, irony and, paradox intermingled within the system of Christian belief in evil and redemption. This is no more evident than in the character of Joy, the daughter, who had lost a leg in a hunting accident at the age of 12 and who now has a wooden leg in his place. Throughout the story, it becomes increasingly clear that Joy’s physical affliction is closely paralleled by a spiritual one as well. As the narrative unfolds, the great lengths Joy has gone to recreate her inner self, her soul, are revealed in painstaking detail. It appears she has succeeded in fashioning her own soul into a spirit that is as hard and unyielding as the prosthesis that now takes the place of her missing naturally soft and flexible appendage. In Christian society and belief, as well as many other religions, the one true possession that a person has total control over is their everlasting soul. It is this spirit that makes one truly unique from everyone else. The fight within one’s self between good and evil and the day to day struggle to ensure that the goodness prevails is the focal point of a true believer’s life. It is only by this triumph on goodness that he can achieve Salvation in the eyes of God. Joy, on the other hand, seems intent on building barriers around her soul that would make it as rigid and unfeeling as her wooden leg. As did the surgeon who had to perform the prosthetic surgery years before to replace a natural part of her physical body, she is apparently trying to perform this same function with the spiritual side of herself as well. She has taken great care to recreate her  «Ã‚  self  Ã‚ » into one th... ...ears were now completely useless. To be an atheist and realize, not that there is a God, but discover there is a Devil, must be a very chilling and disheartening experience. For if there is definitely one, there must be the other. Works Cited Asals, Frederick. Flannery O’Connor  : The Imagination of Extremity. The University of Georgia Press  : Athens, Georgia, 1982. Brinkmeyer, Robert H. The Art and Vision of Flannery O’Connor. Louisiana State University Press  : Baton Rouge, Louisiana  , 1989. DiYanni, Robert. Literature Reading Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and the Essay. McGraw Hill  : Boston, Massachusette, 1998. Eggenschwiler, David. The Christian Humanism of Flannery O’Connor. Wayne State University Press  : Detroit, Michigan, 1972. Feeley, Kathleen. Flannery O’Connor  : Voice of the Peacock. Rugers University Press  : New Brunswick, New Jersey, 1972.

Business Proposal Checklist

Explain how energy evolved over time Into a consumable good. Does It still satisfy the original need for which It was created? Why or why not? How have our basic needs for energy changed? According to Breach (20061 the daily energy use per person has increased from 2,000 kcal when humans were just hunters to 244,526 kcal in 2000. From the beginning of the human race, we have used energy, First by setting wood and other materials on fire, using animals to assist In dally tasks, to using machinery, to finally evolving to the massive use of energy today.Today energy Is still needed to cook our DOD and make our daily lives easier thus satisfying the original need. Although energy is still necessary, I believe humans use too much Reference: Breach, A. J. (2006). Energy: Physical, environmental, and social Impact (3rd De. ). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson-Prentice Hall. WOK-Q: What is the connection between population growth and energy use? How are each interrelated to the supply and dema nd of energy consumption and creation? Explain your answer. The Increase In population Is supported by the steady increase of our use of energy.Modern society is dependent on a massive amount of energy. If that energy were not available or if it declined at any significant amount, it could have a detrimental effect on the population. Should energy supplies decline, price will increase, and the economic challenged population may have to go without needed fuel or electricity. If they are already below a sustaining level, this could be tragic. WOK-Q: Why is it more expensive to transmit electricity locally than over long distances? Please list various reasons for this. Why would an energy plant want to distribute electricity locally if there are fewer profit margins?According to Breach (2006), ten percent of electric energy Is lost In the transmission process. Of the ten percent, eight percent Is loss locally. There are higher losses of energy at very low distribution voltage. Therefor e, the cost to transmit electricity locally is more expensive. The increase in market share, market growth, and no way to storage unused energy, would be reasons why an energy plant would want to distribute electricity locally even though profit margins were less. Breach, A. J. (2006). Energy: Physical, environmental, and social impact (3rd De. ). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson-Prentice Hall.WOK-Q: Explain what is meant by base load, intermediate load, and peak load. Why are these incepts important to understanding the production of electricity and energy management? How do these relate to the end users of the product? According to Breach, base load is the basic amount of electricity that is always required. Base load is generated by the utilities large facilities. Intermediate load is the amount of electricity that slowly cycles on and off. Peak load is the time in which demand for electricity is the greatest. Peak load is usually only a few hours a day.Utilities meet peak load de mand by using additional generators that can be stated quickly. Electricity cannot be easily stored. Therefore, demand has to be anticipated by the utility company. Season and time of day are the predominate drivers of consumption. Enough electricity needs to be supplied to meet demand on the hottest day of summer. Maintaining a reliable electric system without interrupting power to the consumer cannot be accomplished without the balance of supply and demand. Describe the extent of damage done to the power grid during Hurricane Strain in Mississippi, Texas, and Louisiana.

A Commentary on Isaiah Essay

A Commentary on Isaiah 6 Isaiah 6 is written with a mixture of prose and verse, detailing the calling, or commission, of Isaiah by the Lord God. Much of the verse is written in the style of a vision, detailing message to the people of Judea. The main theme running through Isaiah is the message of salvation, even the name of the prophet means ‘salvation of Yahweh’. The book is first of the ‘major prophets’, so called due to its greater length than the shorter ‘minor prophets’ or ‘twelve prophets’. In the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible and in all other English Bibles, the book follows on from the Song of Solomon or Song of Songs. However in the Hebrew Bible, it is seen after 2 Kings, which A. S. Herbert states is ‘a more natural order since this prophet [Isaiah] was deeply involved in the historical events of his day’ and gave a ‘distinctive interpretation of these events’ (1973:1). The genre of the book is mainly of a prophetic nature, with a mixture of oracles, prophesies and reports of the situation in Judah; however it does deviate from this, most notably in chapter 13, where it takes the form of a supposed psalm. This book is written at a time of great strife for the region of Israel. The region has split into two kingdoms, the Assyrian empire is closing in around them and the death of Jeroboam II of Israel (745 BC) and the death Uzziah of Judah (742) ended a time of peace, security and prosperity for both states. Soon after Jeroboams death, civil war broke out in Israel and in 721 BC the Assyrian armies completely subjugated the kingdom. So, we can see that Isaiah is writing in a time of great conflict and insecurity, which increased throughout his prophetic life, ending in the unavoidable conquering of the small Judean kingdom by the Assyrian empire. It is not easy to trace who Isaiah actually was and when he lived, however the general consensus is that he started his ministry around the death of King Uzziah in 742 BC, where he is thought to be around the age of 20. However, the date of his birth is unknown, along with the date of his death, which is thought to be cc. 680 BC, making the prophet well into his 70’s or 80’s before he stops his ministry. We can justify that he certainly ministered during the reign of four Judean kings, Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, as found in Chapter 1 verse1 (Watts 1985:XXV). Clements, however, questions the validity of the first chapter in Isaiah as it seems certain that it has been ‘composed at a relatively late stage in the literary growth of the book’ (Clements 1980:8). It has been speculated that Isaiah may have been related to the royal blood line, most notably Manasseh, who, tradition dictates, martyred Isaiah by sawing him in two (Heb. 11:37). However, this is hardly convincing as many prophets where martyred by Kings and rulers and there is no real evidence to suggest any relationship between Isaiah and Manasseh other than that Isaiah may have still been ministering around the time of Manasseh’s reign. Another problem with dating this book is the question of the authorship. During the time that the books in both the Old and New Testaments were written, it was not uncommon for disciples and students of teachers and prophets to publish works in their tutors name, or to continue a teachers works. Therefore, it is unclear how many authors the book of Isaiah has. Both Watts and Clements maintain the view that Isaiah 40 – 66 are the works of followers of Isaiah during the exile and restoration periods, with Clements stating that the work of J. C. Doederlien in 1775, which argued the above point, has ‘come to be the prevalent consensus of scholarships’ (Clements 1980:2). The text will have been originally written in Hebrew, the oldest surviving copy being part of a collection found in the Qumran Caves, the dead sea scrolls, dating back to around 125 BC. Although there are not many major translation errors, we don’t have the original scroll from over 600 years earlier therefore there could be translation errors from the original to the great Isaiah scroll found among the Dead Sea Scrolls. The setting for Isaiah Chapter six is provided by the Jerusalem temple, ‘looking through the entranceway into the main aula of the temple building’ (Clements 1980:71). A problem can be seen in verses nine and ten, the forewarning that the peoples hearts will harden in response to the teachings that Isaiah will put forward. Many, such as Fohrer and Wildberger, believe this to be from a later period of his prophesy, looking backwards in reflection, however in R. Kilian’s Bauteine Biblischer Theologie 1977, it is argued that this small section was written at the same time as the rest of the verse. Verse six can be split up into three parts; the first (verses 1 – 3) being the vision, the second (4 – 7) the cleansing and preparation of Isaiah for prophetic ministry and thirdly (8 – 11) the divine commission. It is thought that verse 12 – 13 are not part of the original, but addition, probably made in the sixth century BC. There is however, a debate over the date of the last verse (verse 13), with the idea of it being from the exilic age, to give hope in this rather somber and threat filled chapter. 6:1, In the year that King Uzziah died: Uzziah is described in the bible as an incredibly able and holy man, favored by God, ‘He did what was right in the sight of the lord’ and ‘as long as he sought the Lord, God made him prosper’. However, Uzziah insulted the Lord by burning incense at the alter, something that only the Priests could do and so He struck Uzziah down with tzaraat or leprosy, a term that at the time was for several skin diseases and so the precise meaning is uncertain. Because of this, for the last 11 years of Uzziahs reign, his Son Jotham acted as co-regent, then going on to reign for sixteen years after the death of his father. There is speculation that Jotham died a year or so before his father and that Uzziahs grandson, Ahaz took over the co-regency until his death, however, the first version of events seems to have the most universal consensus. I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. Uzziah’s death, thought to be around the date 736 BC, would have been seen as the end of a golden age for the Judeans and a time of uncertainty due to the impending invasion of the Assyrians. It is at this time that the Lord reveals himself to Isaiah. This could be seen as God reminding the people that there is one King above all others and that even though their earthly king has died, there is still an eternal King watching over them. It is typical of most visions of God in the bible for Him to be seated, for example Job (26:9) and in revelation, the apostle John sees God sitting on His throne (4:1 – 11). His robe filled the temple: this could be seen as a display of power and might, as kings often wore long, expensive robes made from silks and gilt so show their worth. The fact that the Lords robe fills the temple could be again showing that there is an even mightier King than Uzziah. Seraphs were in attendance above Him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, with two the covered their feet and with two they flew: the word ‘seraph’ only occurs in Isaiah. While Clements translates the word as ‘burning one’, Herbert seems to feel that the designation of the word ‘seraphim’ only appears in Isaiah, but also in Numbers and Deuteronomy but as ‘serpent’ or ‘snakes’. This, he says, could then lead one to the conclusion that the large bronze serpent in the temple, as described in 2 Kings 18:4, may have stimulated the ‘visionary experience’ (Herbert 1973:58). Many other passages mention Cherubim, and while there is a debate about whether seraphim and cherubim are the same or not, seraphim translates as ‘burning ones’ and in Ezekiel 1:13, cherubim are described as ‘something that looked like burning coals of fire, like torches moving to and fro among the living creatures; the fire was bright and lightening issued from the fire. The significance of the six wings is most probably due to Exodus 33:20, ‘You cannot see my face; for no man shall see me and live’. Therefore the two wings covering their faces is to shield themselves from the glory of God so as not to incur the same fate as Lots wife when she gazes upon the might of God as He destroys Sodom and Gomorrah. Feet at this time were unclean and normally full of dust and are often used as a metaphor for humbling oneself throughout the bible and so covering their feet could be seen to be them humbling themselves before the lord. And one called to another and said: ‘holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory. ’ The threefold use of the word holy conveys the mystery and unapproachable qualities of the Most Holy. In Hebrew, repetition denote the intensity with which they are speaking, therefore having holy three times conveys to the reader the strength of feeling they have towards the Lord. The pivots on the threshold shook at the voices of those who called: suggests that the majesty and power of the seraphim’s voices shook the building. The translation of the Hebrew meaning pivot is uncertain. Many versions of this passage use hinges on doors or the door posts. Some even translate it as the whole foundations of the building are shaking due to the force of the adoration of God. One might read this verse and interpret it as an example of how much the Lord should be praised. We should aim to praise the Lord so much and with such energy that we shake the earth. It could also be Isaiah’s reaction to the voices that it shook him so violently that it felt as if the whole building shook with him. And I said: ‘Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts! ’ We are back again to the unworthiness of human kind to gaze upon the Lords splendour, ‘You cannot see my face; for no man shall see me and live. ’ Herbert suggests that I am lost is because ‘Isaiah is reduced to the silence and stillness of death’ (Herbert 1973:59). For Herbert this is due to him being a creature of sin confronted with holy perfection, not just that of a disciple meeting the deity that created him. Unclean lips demonstrates that Isaiah is aware of the sinful nature not only of himself but of his fellow people, something that does not please the Lord and ‘unfitness to use his mouth in the service of God’ (Clements 1980:75). Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the alter with a pair of tongs. This section of the chapter is different to any other calling to minister for God. The prophets in the bible are always seen to endure trials and hardship before they enter Gods favour. Abraham was tasked with the slaughter of his son and perhaps the most well known trail is that of Job who had to undertake a huge ordeal before ‘the Lord gace Job twice ass much as he had before’ (Job 42:10). ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? ’: the us indicates that God is deliberating with the Holy council of seraphs surrounding Him, however it is also clear that Isaiah is meant to ‘overhear’, in a sense, so that he recognizes that only he (Isaiah) can answer that question by giving himself fully to the work of the Lord. The us could also be interpreted as an early mention or idea of the Trinity. The Jewish people are waiting for a messiah come from God and so it could be logical to suggest that until that messiah comes, He is with the Lord and there could already be a notion of the Holy Spirit in the way the breath moves over the water in creation. However it is more likely that God wanted Isaiah to give himself to god freely, giving Isaiah a choice as to whether he will go out and prophesy about the Lord, therefore using the question and the ruse of the Holy council to incite Isaiah to come forward. And I said, ‘Here am I; send me! ’: this response shows that Isaiah had a willingness to go and carry out the work Yahweh had for him. Although it seems like one single task to complete, I don’t think there can be any doubt that Isaiah knew this was him giving his whole life to the service of the Lord. Although up to this point Isaiah does not know what this task is, it can be derived that from the burning coal purging his lips it seems he is called to preach and prophesy to the people about Yahweh and that this cleansing has allowed the word of God to flow through his lips. And He said, ‘Go and say to this people: the reference to this people suggests that there is an element of ‘divine rejection’ (Clements 1980:76). Yahweh no longer sees the chosen people in a favourable light and is sending Isaiah to tell them. ‘Keep listening but do not comprehend’: there is, for Clements, a sense of irony in this section, ‘for the prophet undoubtedly did, very passionately and sincerely, want the people to hear and to understand’ (1980:77). Clements also suggest as Isaiah will have written this account some time after the vision occurred, it could be that he integrated how the message was received into the words that Yahweh spoke to him. However, due to the belief that God is in everything and everything comes from God, Isaiah would have been justified in doing this as he would know that the hardening of the hearts of the people towards his message is because of God. Then I said, ‘How long, O Lord’: throughout the Bible, how long is often the start of a lamentation. This cry out is not just asking how long the suffering will last, but a plea for God to end it quickly. Until cities lie waste without inhabitant is a reference to the devastation that war will bring about when the Assyrian empire seeks to expand further. The land is utterly desolate refers to Judah, where Isaiah ministers, however it may mean the whole of the promised land. Verses 12 – 13 are an addition by and editor, most probably one of the later Isaian disciples around the time of during the exile and restoration periods. Until the Lord sends everyone far away adds to this idea as it must refer to the Assyrian empire sending the Jews to captivity in Babylon. Even if a tenth part remains in it, it will be burned again, like a terebinth or an oak whose stump remains standing when it is felled. This passage is a complex one with much debate on what the Hebrew originally was and therefore how it should be translated into the Bible of today. The most widely regarded solution would be that the Hebrew bam should in fact be bamah which means ‘high place’. Therefore the noun for stump, which in Hebrew is massebe? would then mean ‘sacred pole’. ‘Thus ‘a sacred pole grows out from its place in a hill-shrine’ (Clement 1980:78) is the new sentence created. However this passage is translated, it is agreed that there is a very real element of threat present. Just as a stump is not left in the ground, but instead a hole drilled in the top and filled with fuel and burned, s o will the Jews suffer, even though they may feel they have suffered enough. The Holy Seed is its stump is almost certainly a later addition, post – exile, in order to give hope to those who were now under the Babylonian captivity. Herbert comments that this sentence is ‘absent from the Septuagint, but the Greek Modified [verse 12] to mean ‘and those who were left on the land were multiplied’, a similarly hopeful note’. (Herbert 1973:60). The addition of this last sentence gives hope as it suggests that even the stump of a felled tree may once again grow, meaning that some will survive and carry on the line of David.